Myth or fact: a visit to the dentist every six months is necessary for your dental health. As your dentist in Williamstown, Dr. Wael Kassem wants you to know it’s absolutely true. Regular checkups and cleanings are a crucial aspect of good dental hygiene. But why are these appointments necessary? And what does your six month checkup and cleaning include? Learn more about preventive dental care today!
Why You Need a Checkup and Cleaning Every Six Months
You already know the basics of good dental hygiene. The question is — are you really brushing your teeth for the full two minutes? And do you remember to floss every single night? Plaque can turn into tartar in as little as 24 hours, and both substances cause tooth decay and gum disease. But the truth is, even people with the best dental hygiene habits can be affected by dental problems. The best way to prevent these and other issues (and to catch them early when they do develop) is by giving your mouth a fresh, clean start every six months.
Tooth decay and gum disease don’t get better on their own. Left untreated, a small cavity eventually grows into a painful toothache that may require root canal therapy or, in the worst cases, extraction. And gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults over the age of 35. The conclusion? Save yourself time, money, and a whole lot of discomfort by staying on top of your preventive dental care.
What Happens During Your Six Month Visit to the Dentist
Prevention and early detection are the goals of your six month appointment. First, your dental hygienist will thoroughly clean the surface of your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup above and and around the gumline. Once your smile is sparkling clean, Dr. Kassem will take a look at your teeth, gums, and oral structures during the exam portion of your appointment.
Some considerations during your preventive visit to the dentist include:
- Tooth decay
- Examining existing dental work (fillings, bridges, crowns, etc.) for evidence of wear or potential problems
- Gum health
- Oral cancer screening
- Patient education
- Dental sealants and fluoride treatment for children
If evidence of decay, infection, or other problems is present, Dr. Kassem will make recommendations for restorative care to get your smile back to its regular health as soon as possible.
Combine Regular Visits With Excellent At-Home Care
Good dental hygiene is a three-step process. In addition to your six-month checkups and cleanings, make sure you’re brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day and flossing daily to remove the plaque, food particles, and bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Maintaining a nutritious diet also contributes to good dental health.
Schedule Your Checkup and Cleaning Today!
It’s simple: by preventing problems and helping your dentist catch cavities and gum disease early, regular dental care saves you time, stress, and money. Don’t skip out on your twice-annual checkup and cleaning! Contact iSmile Dental Arts to schedule your appointment with your Williamstown dentist today.
